"Never fought for Independence": CPI's D Raja questions RSS' role in freedom struggle

New Delhi [India], October 3 (ANI): Communist Party of India (Marxist) General Secretary D Raja on Thursday lambasted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his "RSS' role in freedom struggle" remarks during the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's centenary celebration speech.
The CPI leader challenged PM Modi to explain the role of RSS during the independence movement.
Speaking to ANI, Raja said, "RSS never fought for the Independence of the country. Our party was formed in the same year, 1925, and was at the forefront of the freedom movement, making supreme sacrifices. In fact, our party was the first to give the call for complete Independence and to end colonial rule. Where was RSS? What contribution has RSS made in social and cultural history? It is reactionary, divisive, sectarian, and polarising people, posing threats to the unity and integrity of the country. I challenge the Prime Minister to explain the role of RSS during the freedom movement. Let him explain to the people."
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, speaking during the centenary celebrations of RSS in the national capital, PM Modi praised the RSS for its long-standing commitment to nation-building. He said the RSS has helped nurture and strengthen countless lives over the years.
"Just as human civilisations flourish along the banks of mighty rivers, similarly, hundreds of lives have blossomed and thrived along the banks and in the flow of the RSS. Since its formation, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has pursued a grand objective. That objective has been nation-building," PM Modi said.
On Thursday, AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi strongly refuted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims about the RSS' role in the freedom struggle, asserting that no Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh member sacrificed their life for the country's Independence.
"The Prime Minister claimed that the RSS took part in the war for freedom. I was surprised and concerned about where this story comes from. History shows that not a single RSS member lost their life fighting for the country. If someone can name one, I am willing to hear it," the AIMIM chief said.
He pointed out that the RSS founder, KB Hedgewar, was associated with the freedom struggle before establishing the organisation. (ANI)